Bloemfontein – Free State Cheetahs coach Rory Duncan expects a huge physical onslaught from the Blue Bulls when the two sides clash in their Currie Cup encounter on Friday at Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein.
“We know it is going to be very physical,” said Duncan on Thursday.
“That is the way the Bulls play their rugby. But we have some good momentum going into the game and we want to use that to our advantage. We aren't focusing on the semi-finals, but are taking it game for game.”
The Bulls, meanwhile, would want to get back to winning ways after they lost to the Sharks last weekend.
Currently fifth on the overall points log, the Cheetahs will move into fourth place if they beat the visitors and if Western Province best the Pumas in Nelspruit.
Beating the Eastern Province Kings in Port Elizabeth last weekend, the Cheetahs were building towards a spot in the semi-finals and a victory over the Bulls at home would give their aspirations a huge boost.
Bolstered by the return of stalwarts in Springbok prop Coenie Oosthuizen and Super Rugby veterans Ä eighthman Jean Cook and fullback Clayton Blommetjies Ä the Cheetahs had reason to be optimistic.
“Guys like Coenie and Jean bring another dimension to our game.
“And of course their physical presence will also be very welcome. From the back guys like Clayton, Rayno Benjamin and Raymond Rhule can come into play if our forwards produce good quality ball.”
The Bulls would be hugely motivated by the return of their regular captain and flanker Deon Stegman, who missed last week's game due to suspension.
And with a spot in the last four still a possibility, the visitors would throw everything at the hosts.
“Playing the Cheetahs at home is always difficult,” said Bulls coach Frans Ludeke.
“They have some good momentum and will be a huge challenge. We are glad to have someone like Deon back in the setup. Hopefully we can come away with a victory.” – Sapa